Re: 2001 230LX Stingray, need advice
Stingrays are great. I have not been in the 23 foot LX, mine in the 19 foot LX version. I find the quality and the build to be real good. I have to admit, when I sit in my buddies chaparral, the vinyl does feel a little heavier, the hardware a little thicker and nicer, but still I see screws coming loose, etc. Stingrays probably were priced more in the middle to lower range of the 23 foot boats when new, so their resale will be in the middle to lower range. They do say they target performance at a value price. That was one of the reasons I could get into a 19 because I had a tow weight limit, and the Stingray at 19 feet and with an 8 person capacity was almost between 500 and 800 lbs lighter than comparable used 19 foot boats from their competitors.
Here is what I know about the zplane hull. Its a go fast hull that prefers speed. It is not a good low speed planer and is very sensitive to trim. This is where most people complain about the boats. There are two solutions: good-hydrofoil and better-trim tabs like nauticas smart tabs. With these people love the boat and how it performs. I have a foil and mine planes quickly and turns on a dime. It skis great, cruises great, and looks good.
Owners also pretty universally complain about the ski locker in the middle staying wet. Some pull out the carpet and replace it. I would look at this area to see if its got any mold or signs of excessive water sitting in this area.
Finally, I say buy it. The people on the inside of the Stingray website are good people with lots of info. People really seem to love the Bravo set up. You will be flying past more expensive boats over the 50 MPH mark on the speedo. Plus, the LX set up is a comfortable layout.
Best of luck.
